Chunk of £300bn South American infrastructure work for UK contractors

UK contractors should take advantage of infrastructure projects worth £300bn in Brazil and Mexico.

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) has launched two reports into opportunities in the country.

Author of the reports, David Howell from DMH Consultancy, said: "Both Brazil and Mexico are tipped to become major players in the world economy in the coming decades but the current lack of infrastructure is severely hindering economic growth. Both governments recognise this and have committed a combined total of nearly £300bn to this sector."

The Brazilian government is planning to increase infrastructure spending to nearly £140bn, including new highways, railways, waterways, ports and airports. The 2014 World Cup will boost construction work in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

Rio is also mounting a bid for the 2016 Olympic Games.

In Mexico the government is committing £155bn to finance the supply of roads, railways, airports and ports.

UKTI chief executive Andrew Cahn said: "In difficult times for the global economy, it's vital that UK firms seek out opportunities where they exist with an eye to future growth. UKTI's research has identified Brazil and Mexico as being among the most exciting places to invest, not just for construction but across the board."